Climbing 1.6 km of Stairs to N Seoul Tower (N 서울타워)

N Seoul Tower (aka – Namsan Tower) is the most recognizable landmark in Seoul. At night it’s even more spectacular.

This was my first trip to Seoul and my first time on the subway. My only prior experience with subways was in Washington, DC and I’d say the subway here is just as easy to navigate. Just grab a free route map at the ticket booth and you’re good to go. I used my T-Money card to pay the fare (roughly 2,000 Won) from Sadang Station to Myeon-dong Station where I got off.

From the metro station, I just walked in the direction of Namsan where I could see Seoul Tower peeking through the buildings. Once I got to the base of the mountain, it was a mere 1.6 km (1-mile) of stairs to the summit, a water vending machine (1,000 Won), and Seoul Tower (N 서울타워).

Despite being a tourist destination, it’s not terribly overpriced. You have to buy a ticket to take the elevator up to the Observation Deck which is 9,000 Won per person. There are package deals for couples.

Feeling hungry? No problem. There are several places to eat, buy snacks, or get dessert at Cold Stone Creamery.

Visiting N Seoul Tower

The view of Seoul from the Observation Deck is impressive. I bet it’s even more beautiful at night. On the windows are the names of cities in that direction and the distance they are from Seoul. After strolling around, you can send a postcard from the world’s highest post office. Post cards run about 2,200 Won and international stamps run 400 Won.

If you visit Namsan with your sweetheart, you can attach a lock to one of the love trees or the fence at the base of the tower. It’s similar to the bridge in Paris, France but I don’t think you toss your key into the forest.